The Miracle Experiment: Life Lessons in Learning to Live Confidently by the Spirit and the Miracles That Follow

by Mark Hampton, Alyssa Wilkinson

166 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 1, 2026

Reviews

[George Dickinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This chapter of The Miracle Experiment is deeply moving, honest, and spiritually uplifting. “The Painful Process” captures something every person experiences but rarely understands in the moment: growth almost always comes through discomfort. Rather than offering shallow encouragement, the chapter acknowledges the frustration, fear, and exhaustion that often accompany faith and personal development, making its message feel authentic and relatable.

One of the strongest aspects of this chapter is the powerful imagery used throughout. The comparison of spiritual growth to learning to ride a bike is simple yet incredibly effective. It illustrates how God sometimes allows us to struggle—not because He has abandoned us, but because He knows what we are capable of becoming. The analogy of the refiner’s fire and the removal of dross adds even greater depth, emphasizing that trials are not meaningless suffering but part of a careful process of purification and transformation.

The inclusion of Hugh B. Brown’s “currant bush” story is especially impactful. It gives the chapter emotional weight and shows how painful disappointments can eventually become the very experiences that shape a person’s purpose and character. The message that God sometimes “cuts us down” because He sees greater potential in us is both sobering and comforting.

What makes this chapter stand out is its balance between doctrine and practicality. It doesn’t pretend that opposition is easy. Instead, it validates human weakness while encouraging readers to trust the process and continue moving forward. The story about Steve swimming against the river current perfectly reinforces the idea that resistance and adversity are what ultimately build strength.

Overall, this chapter is inspiring without being preachy and motivational without feeling superficial. It reminds readers that setbacks, failures, and painful seasons are often evidence of growth rather than signs of abandonment. The writing is heartfelt, memorable, and filled with hope. A powerful chapter for anyone struggling through challenges and trying to trust God through the refining process.

[Carla · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Miracle Experiment is a great book to read if you've ever felt that heaven has been silent, or that you're not sure God hears you, or that you don't know if miracles happen anymore. The thing is, that miracles happen every day and when we look for them and pray to recognize them we will see how God is ever present in our lives. The thing that constitutes a miracle is God intervening in our life; and the way we can recognize even the tiniest miracles is to see how unique they are to those whom they are sent to, and how God is in the miracle. This book is a great example and reminder of a God who knows and loves each of us.

I received an e-ARC from the publisher

[Rhonda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book, I laughed and I cried. The stories of miracles were very heart touching. Mark states, "As you strive to tune into His will, serve those around you, and press forward despite opposition anxiety, and discomfort, you grow and evolve. You become even more miraculous. Isn't that beautiful? At the end of the the day, the ultimate blessing of all of it is the way that God uses our participation in His work to change us." This was a great book and gives you hope that you can help God do his work. You can serve others and save lives and hearts.

[Terrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fantastic book and really resonated with me. I really appreciated the author's thought provoking questions at the end of each section. The personal experiences and miracles shared were very touching. It has instilled in me the desire to do and be better at both seeing and being God's hands in miracles.

I received an ARC of this book from the publisher, but the thoughts and rating are my own.

[Kerstin Kohlhepp · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book. Its helping me to slow down and recognize the big and little miracles God has done and is still doing for me. There were a few times I needed tissues because i felt the Spirit and even a prayer answered in one section I read.
I had an advanced readers Copy. So these thoughts are my own.